Creating a Warm and Inviting Dining Room

If you’re the type of person who loves to have company over, you’ve probably spent some time thinking of how exactly are you going to impress your guests. One area you can score major brownie points with anyone is the dining room.

Now, we may want to put all our eggs in the living room basket, but this isn’t as good an idea as it sounds. Why? It’s because there’s a high chance that you will have some kind of a dining reception for your guests, and it is this part of their time at your home that will stick with them more than the others.

How do I create that welcoming feel?

Maybe you’ve started to make an effort by choosing a matching dining room table set but haven’t worked on the actual room itself. One common hurdle is utilizing furniture that you’re attached to improperly. Sure, it may make you feel good on the inside, but it might not blend with the room and its décor.

Take a step back and reevaluate the colors, shape of the furniture, accessories, and room layout. This will be the first step in creating that warm and inviting space.

Wall color

A major component of your dining room’s atmosphere is the color of your walls. The wrong colors can make your walls seem cold or barren. However, using a color such as charcoal brown or tree-bark brown can bring out a sense of family in the dining room. However, it doesn’t have to be just brown! Try any color that has some hue and depth and see what wonders it can do.

A good solid rug

A dining room is well complemented by something that looks handmade, like a nice soft rug. Take the extra step and combine that rug with some colorful and vibrant art on the walls for a modern, yet friendly feel.

A wall unit filled with interesting knick-knacks

Wall units near the dining room table can be perfect for striking up meaningful conversations. Line up some collections such as teacups, travel souvenirs, or antique books. One helpful hint is to not line up everything perfectly but to organize everything in a semi-haphazard way. The point is to make your wall unit as fun and spontaneous as possible.

Bright curtains help fake brightness

The right kind of curtains can create the illusion of a sun pouring through your windows, no matter what the weather is. Goldenrod colored curtains or even seat cushions coupled with some indoor plants can breathe some life and light into any dining room.

Dinner by the fire

If you’re one of the lucky owners of a fireplace, consider moving your dining furniture and all the aforementioned things near it. If you want your dining room to have “warmth”, this is a literal excellent solution.

Don’t be afraid

Above all, have fun. If you’re rearranging your dining room to better entertain guests you have over, always remember one thing — people are more interesting than rooms! Let your dining room be a reflection of you and you’ll do just fine.

• Rely on an existing design trend, or mix-and-match to create your own unique style. Find out more.

• Is your home guest-ready? Check out our FREE Guide to Getting & Staying Organized!